Construction has begun on a new section of cycleway that will safely connect people riding between College and King streets.
More than 200m of separated cycleway will be built on street around the north-eastern side of Hyde Park and southern end of Macquarie Street, connecting to the existing shared path at Queens Square and linking to the King Street cycleway.
Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore AO said connecting the network will encourage more people to leave the car at home.
"Since we started making riding more attractive in Sydney, we've seen a huge increase in people choosing a cheaper and healthier way to get around," the Lord Mayor said.
"In fact this year there was the largest number of trips ever recorded when the City did counts in March which was an increase of 7% on the same time the previous year.
"With College Street cycleway reinstated and our Oxford Street West cycleway welcoming riders, people going to and from the eastern suburbs and the city centre will soon be better connected than ever before.
"We're building a well-planned network of cycleways that help people get around by bike, offering an another healthy, convenient and low-cost travel choice."
The project will include:
- a new bi-directional cycleway along Prince Albert Road to connect to the College Street cycleway
- a new bi-directional cycleway on a small section of Macquarie Street
- a new ramp on Macquarie Street giving people riding a clear entry point
- widening the footpath near the Queen Victoria statue, and
- upgrading 2 signalised intersections, including improved lighting.
These works will greatly improve safety for people riding and walking in and around Hyde Park and Queens Square.
No parking or trees will be lost in the project expected to be finished later this year, weather and other conditions permitting.
King Street will be even better for people riding when Transport for NSW finishes a missing section of cycleway between Clarence and Pitt streets. Once completed, people will be able to ride between Anzac Bridge and Anzac Parade through the city centre on separated cycleways.
Design and construction of the King to College streets cycleway have been funded by the NSW Government's Get Active NSW grant program.
